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The community of Silver Bay, Minnesota is mourning the sudden and unexpected loss of one of its most beloved members, Herb Lattin, who passed away on May 19th, 2025. His passing has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Herb was more than just a resident of Silver Bay—he was a cornerstone of the community. Known for his boundless generosity, warm sense of humor, and a genuine heart, Herb had a way of making people feel welcomed and appreciated wherever he went. Whether it was lending a helping hand to a neighbor in need, volunteering his time to local events, or simply sharing a smile and a good story, Herb’s presence brought comfort and joy.

A devoted husband and a proud father, Herb’s greatest joy in life was his family. His love for them was evident in everything he did. He was a steady rock, a patient listener, and a guiding light, always there to support and encourage. His values of kindness, hard work, and compassion were not only taught but lived—day in and day out. To his friends, he was loyal and dependable, always ready with a joke to lift spirits or a thoughtful gesture to show he cared.

Herb’s unexpected passing is a profound loss, not just to his loved ones, but to the entire Silver Bay community. In the words of many who knew him, “Herb made everything better.” His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind.

A memorial open house will be held in Herb’s honor on Saturday, May 24th, at the Beaver Bay Community Center from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This gathering will serve as a celebration of Herb’s life—a chance for friends, neighbors, and family to come together, share stories, and honor the incredible man he was.

All who knew Herb are encouraged to attend, to remember the laughter, the love, and the meaningful connections that he cultivated throughout his life. During this difficult time, please hold Herb’s family in your thoughts and prayers, and take a moment to reflect on the difference one kind and generous soul can make in the world.

Herb Lattin will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he inspired and cared for.

#silver_bay #rememberingherb #communitylove

It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we share the passing of Curtistine Hamilton Blair, a beloved member of the Marietta, Georgia community. After a brave and unwavering battle with cancer, Curtistine departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Curtistine’s presence was one of warmth, wisdom, and quiet resilience. She was a daughter, a mother, a sister, a friend — and for many, a guiding light in times of uncertainty. Her unwavering faith, vibrant spirit, and selfless devotion to her family and community stood as a testament to the beautiful life she lived. Whether through her kind words, her gentle laughter, or her open heart, Curtistine had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and valued.

A native of Georgia, Curtistine made her home in Marietta, where she poured her heart into her family and extended compassion to everyone she met. She touched countless lives with her generosity, grace, and perseverance — even in the face of her illness. Her courage throughout her battle with cancer was nothing short of extraordinary. She approached each day with dignity and an unshakable belief in the power of love and community.

Her family and friends will come together to honor her remarkable life on May 30, what would have been her birthday — a fitting and heartfelt tribute to the day her light first entered this world. As we prepare to lay Curtistine to rest on this significant day, we also reflect on the profound impact she had on those around her.

To support her family during this difficult time, Rodney Hamilton, a loved one, has organized a fundraiser to help with funeral expenses. Every contribution, no matter the size, is a gesture of kindness and solidarity, helping to ease the financial burden on the family as they grieve and celebrate the life of someone so dear.

Curtistine Hamilton Blair’s memory will live on — in the lives she touched, the love she gave, and the strength she showed. While we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the immeasurable gifts she shared with the world.

Please consider offering your support or sharing the fundraiser to help Curtistine’s family during this difficult time.

Your compassion is deeply appreciated.

In the heart-wrenching aftermath of the deadly tornado that swept through St. Louis, Missouri, stories of love, loss, and resilience are emerging from the wreckage. Among them is the deeply moving story of Rena Scott Lyles, a 60-year-old woman whose final moments were spent beside the man she loved — until the storm tore them apart.

Rena and her husband, Alan Lyles, were at home when the tornado warning sirens began to blare. The sky had turned an eerie green, and the wind picked up with terrifying speed. Like so many others that night, the couple rushed to the basement — their designated shelter — seeking refuge from the approaching storm. It was a decision rooted in instinct and hope, one they had rehearsed many times in drills and emergency plans. But no amount of preparation could shield them from what came next.

As the monstrous winds bore down on their neighborhood, the Lyles clung to one another. Alan would later recall that Rena was still holding his hand when the unimaginable happened — the tornado struck their home with full force. The wind, deafening and violent, tore through the house, ripping apart walls, splintering beams, and collapsing the structure around them. In a single moment, they were separated.

Trapped beneath the rubble, Alan called out for his wife, his voice straining above the roar of the storm. He called for help, and his neighbors responded. Risking their own safety, they rushed to the ruins of the Lyles’ home, digging through debris, shouting Alan’s name until they found him. He was injured and shaken, but alive.

But Rena didn’t make it. Buried in the basement, crushed beneath the very shelter meant to protect her, she died there — in the home they had built together, beside the man she had loved for decades. Her final act had been to hold his hand, a silent gesture of strength and unity in the face of nature’s fury.

Rena Scott Lyles was more than a victim of a tornado. She was a beloved wife, a cherished neighbor, and a kind soul whose presence brightened the lives of those around her. Her passing is a devastating loss not only to her family, but to the entire St. Louis community reeling from the storm’s destruction.

This tragedy highlights the heartbreaking human toll that severe weather can exact. It reminds us of the fragile line between life and loss, and the courage it takes to face the unknown. Rena’s story, while unbearably sad, also speaks to the enduring power of love — even in the darkest of moments.

Our deepest sympathy goes out to the Lyles family and all others who have suffered loss in the wake of this devastating tornado. In honoring Rena’s memory, we hold onto the hope that her final moments, though tragic, were filled with love, not fear.

With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Brandie Marie Kidwell, who left this world far too soon on May 16, 2025, at the age of 35. A lifelong resident of Middletown, Ohio, Brandie was a beacon of light in the lives of everyone who had the privilege to know her. Her sudden departure leaves a space that will never truly be filled, but her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched.

Brandie was known not only for her kindness and compassion, but also for her fierce spirit and unshakable loyalty. She was the kind of person who showed up when it mattered most—offering support, laughter, and a comforting presence to friends and family alike. Whether it was a warm smile or a listening ear, Brandie had a gift for making others feel seen and valued.

She had a deep love for her community in Middletown, where she grew up surrounded by family and friends who watched her evolve into the strong and beautiful soul she became. Brandie found joy in simple pleasures—Sunday dinners with loved ones, spontaneous road trips, music that made her dance, and long conversations under the stars. Her laughter was contagious, her hugs sincere, and her energy unforgettable.

To know Brandie was to know someone who loved deeply and lived honestly. She faced life’s challenges with courage and grace, never losing her sense of humor or her belief in brighter days ahead. Her strength in the face of adversity was admired by many, and her unwavering love for those close to her will always be remembered.

As we come together to celebrate Brandie Marie Kidwell’s life, we are reminded of the impact she had on this world. Her legacy is one of love, resilience, and unwavering hope. She may be gone from our sight, but she remains forever in our hearts.

We invite all who knew and loved Brandie to join us in honoring her memory. Let us reflect on the joy she brought into our lives, share the stories that made us laugh, and hold her family in our thoughts as they navigate this difficult journey.

Rest in peace, Brandie. Your light will never fade.

PAW PAW, Mich. (AP) — Nearly two decades after a horrifying crime that shocked the small Michigan community of Paw Paw, Linda Stermer has once again been sentenced to life in prison for the brutal death of her husband, Todd Stermer. The case, marked by intense legal battles and disturbing details, has resurfaced in the public eye following her retrial and reconviction.

A Crime of Fire and Fury

In January 2007, emergency responders were called to a terrifying scene: Todd Stermer had been set on fire inside the couple’s home and was later run over by a van as he lay burning in the driveway. Linda Stermer, his wife, claimed the tragedy was a terrible accident — one sparked by candles and an oil lamp in their house. But prosecutors painted a far more sinister picture: a calculated murder fueled by betrayal and rage.

According to investigators, the fatal blaze occurred just one day after Todd learned of Linda’s extramarital affair. Prosecutors said that Linda doused him with gasoline before setting him ablaze, then struck him with a van while he attempted to escape, engulfed in flames. Linda, who fled the scene but survived, was unharmed. Todd, however, died from his injuries.

Van Buren County Judge Kathleen Brickley did not mince words during sentencing. “Murder is by its nature a monstrous deed,” she told Stermer in court. “But the one you’ve committed is more gruesome than most. I cannot fathom the suffering he endured in his last moments of life.”

A Twisting Legal Battle

Stermer was originally convicted of murder and arson in 2010 and sentenced to life without parole. She served several years in prison before a significant legal turn in 2020. A federal appeals court overturned her conviction, citing ineffective assistance of counsel. The panel found that her defense attorney failed to adequately challenge the arson theory central to the prosecution’s case.

The ruling opened the door to a second trial, and for a brief period, Linda Stermer regained her freedom. But the new trial brought a second reckoning — and once again, a jury found her guilty of first-degree murder. Despite her attempts to portray the incident as accidental, the evidence and expert testimony painted a damning portrait of intentional, violent action.

Notably, Judge Jeffrey Sutton, one of the appeals court judges who dissented from the 2020 ruling, had voiced deep skepticism about Stermer’s story. “All that was missing was a film of the mariticide,” Sutton said, referring to the murder of one’s spouse. He found the notion of accidental fire highly implausible.

A Family and Community Shattered

The Stermer case has left a long-lasting scar on their family and community. Loved ones of Todd Stermer have endured nearly two decades of legal uncertainty, only to watch the nightmare resurface with each courtroom appeal. The tragedy has also reignited discussions about domestic violence, the justice system, and how courts handle complex forensic evidence.

The latest verdict, however, brings some closure. With her new life sentence handed down, Linda Stermer will again spend the rest of her life behind bars, without the possibility of parole.

Conclusion

The case of Linda Stermer is a sobering reminder of how justice can be delayed, but not always denied. Though the legal system granted her a second chance, the outcome was unchanged: the evidence — and the horror of what happened to Todd Stermer — was too overwhelming to ignore. For the second time, a jury affirmed that what occurred on that tragic day in 2007 was not an accident, but a deliberate act of murder.

A significant security breach at the Orleans Justice Center in New Orleans has led to the arrest of 33-year-old Sterling Williams, a former maintenance worker accused of facilitating the escape of ten inmates earlier this month. Williams, who has been taken into custody, admitted to investigators that he was threatened by inmates to cut off the water supply to a cell, enabling the escape.

According to authorities, the escape occurred around 1:00 a.m. on May 16, 2025. The inmates exploited faulty cell locks and removed a metal toilet and sink unit, creating a hole in the wall through which they fled. Graffiti left behind read “To Easy LoL” and “We Innocent,” mocking the ease of their escape. After squeezing through the hole, the group fled through a loading dock, scaled a wall, and ran across Interstate 10. The escape was not discovered until a routine headcount at 8:30 a.m., approximately seven hours later.   

Williams faces ten counts of principal to simple escape and one count of malfeasance in office. He claimed that an inmate threatened to “shank” him with a homemade knife if he did not comply. Three other jail employees have been suspended without pay pending the outcome of the investigation.    

As of May 20, 2025, four of the ten escapees have been recaptured, while six remain at large. The fugitives include individuals charged with serious crimes such as second-degree murder, armed robbery, and domestic abuse.  Authorities, including the FBI and U.S. Marshals, are actively searching for the remaining escapees and have offered rewards for information leading to their capture.   

The incident has raised serious concerns about security lapses at the Orleans Justice Center, including unattended surveillance and defective locks. Sheriff Susan Hutson has acknowledged the possibility of inside help in the escape and emphasized systemic issues within the jail’s operation.   

The Louisiana Attorney General’s Office is leading the investigation and has pledged full prosecution of all involved. The escape has also prompted staff evacuations at the District Attorney’s Office and widespread criticism over delayed victim notifications.

This event underscores the need for comprehensive reforms in jail security and management to prevent such incidents in the future.

The Chandler, Arizona community is grappling with deep sorrow following the heartbreaking death of 3-year-old Trigg Kiser, a bright and beloved young boy whose life was cut tragically short. Trigg passed away on May 18, 2025, nearly a week after he was found unresponsive in a backyard swimming pool on May 12. The accident occurred near Gilbert and Riggs roads, casting a long shadow over the local community and prompting an outpouring of support from people across the country.

What began as a seemingly ordinary spring day turned into every parent’s worst nightmare. On the afternoon of May 12, first responders rushed to a home in response to reports of a child found in a residential pool. Trigg, despite the swift and heroic efforts of emergency personnel, was unresponsive when pulled from the water. He was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition, where he remained under intensive medical care for several days.

The Kiser family, known in their community for their warmth and faith, spent those harrowing days at Trigg’s bedside, surrounded by family, friends, and a growing number of supporters. Social media lit up with messages of hope, prayers, and solidarity for Trigg and his loved ones. A fundraising campaign to support the family quickly gained traction, drawing support not just from Chandler, but from strangers across the nation who were moved by the family’s tragedy.

Sadly, despite the tireless efforts of medical staff and the fervent prayers of thousands, Trigg succumbed to his injuries on May 18. The news of his passing sent shockwaves through the community. Vigils were held, candles lit, and tears shed in memory of a child who, though young, had already touched so many lives with his joy, laughter, and innocence.

Trigg’s death is a somber reminder of the dangers posed by swimming pools, particularly for young children. In Arizona, where backyard pools are common, accidental drownings remain a significant risk. Local officials and safety advocates have renewed calls for vigilance, emphasizing the importance of constant supervision, pool barriers, and swimming lessons for children.

In the wake of the tragedy, neighbors, faith communities, and local organizations have rallied around the Kiser family. Meal trains, memorial donations, and offers of support have poured in. A memorial service is being planned to honor Trigg’s life, where friends and loved ones will gather to remember the light he brought into the world.

Trigg’s parents, though devastated, have shown immense grace in the face of unimaginable loss. In a statement shared through their church, they expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and asked for continued prayers as they navigate the difficult days ahead.

“Our hearts are shattered,” the statement read. “But we are clinging to our faith and the beautiful memories we have of our sweet Trigg. He brought us so much joy in his three short years. We will love him forever and hold him in our hearts until we can hold him in Heaven.”

The Chandler community, now bound together by grief, is also united in love and support. Trigg’s story has become a rallying cry for awareness and safety, and a poignant reminder of the preciousness of every moment with our loved ones.

As flowers and teddy bears pile up at makeshift memorials, and as social media fills with tributes bearing #TriggStrong, one thing is certain: Trigg Kiser will not be forgotten. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, those who mourn him, and those inspired to take action in his name.

May his soul rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the love that surrounds them.

The Chandler, Arizona community is grappling with deep sorrow following the heartbreaking death of 3-year-old Trigg Kiser, a bright and beloved young boy whose life was cut tragically short. Trigg passed away on May 18, 2025, nearly a week after he was found unresponsive in a backyard swimming pool on May 12. The accident occurred near Gilbert and Riggs roads, casting a long shadow over the local community and prompting an outpouring of support from people across the country.

What began as a seemingly ordinary spring day turned into every parent’s worst nightmare. On the afternoon of May 12, first responders rushed to a home in response to reports of a child found in a residential pool. Trigg, despite the swift and heroic efforts of emergency personnel, was unresponsive when pulled from the water. He was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition, where he remained under intensive medical care for several days.

The Kiser family, known in their community for their warmth and faith, spent those harrowing days at Trigg’s bedside, surrounded by family, friends, and a growing number of supporters. Social media lit up with messages of hope, prayers, and solidarity for Trigg and his loved ones. A fundraising campaign to support the family quickly gained traction, drawing support not just from Chandler, but from strangers across the nation who were moved by the family’s tragedy.

Sadly, despite the tireless efforts of medical staff and the fervent prayers of thousands, Trigg succumbed to his injuries on May 18. The news of his passing sent shockwaves through the community. Vigils were held, candles lit, and tears shed in memory of a child who, though young, had already touched so many lives with his joy, laughter, and innocence.

Trigg’s death is a somber reminder of the dangers posed by swimming pools, particularly for young children. In Arizona, where backyard pools are common, accidental drownings remain a significant risk. Local officials and safety advocates have renewed calls for vigilance, emphasizing the importance of constant supervision, pool barriers, and swimming lessons for children.

In the wake of the tragedy, neighbors, faith communities, and local organizations have rallied around the Kiser family. Meal trains, memorial donations, and offers of support have poured in. A memorial service is being planned to honor Trigg’s life, where friends and loved ones will gather to remember the light he brought into the world.

Trigg’s parents, though devastated, have shown immense grace in the face of unimaginable loss. In a statement shared through their church, they expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and asked for continued prayers as they navigate the difficult days ahead.

“Our hearts are shattered,” the statement read. “But we are clinging to our faith and the beautiful memories we have of our sweet Trigg. He brought us so much joy in his three short years. We will love him forever and hold him in our hearts until we can hold him in Heaven.”

The Chandler community, now bound together by grief, is also united in love and support. Trigg’s story has become a rallying cry for awareness and safety, and a poignant reminder of the preciousness of every moment with our loved ones.

As flowers and teddy bears pile up at makeshift memorials, and as social media fills with tributes bearing #TriggStrong, one thing is certain: Trigg Kiser will not be forgotten. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, those who mourn him, and those inspired to take action in his name.

May his soul rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the love that surrounds them.

Andrea Aguina Rios, a beloved member of the Surprise, Arizona community and a proud alumna of Peoria Accelerated High School, has tragically passed away. Her departure has left a deep void in the hearts of her family, friends, former classmates, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. As the news of her passing spreads, so too does the overwhelming sense of loss and sorrow shared by those whose lives she touched.

Andrea was known not just for her radiant smile and lively spirit, but for her unwavering kindness, compassion, and authenticity. She had a way of making people feel truly seen and heard—whether through a heartfelt conversation, a warm embrace, or a simple act of generosity. Her laughter, full of warmth and life, was often the light that lifted the spirits of those around her.

As a student at Peoria Accelerated High School, Andrea was admired not only for her academic dedication but for the friendships she fostered and the respect she earned from peers and teachers alike. Her drive, determination, and positive outlook left an indelible mark on her school community.

Beyond the classroom, Andrea’s life was a testament to the values of love, loyalty, and joy. She had a remarkable ability to form lasting bonds, often becoming the glue that held friend groups and family gatherings together. Whether she was offering a listening ear or planning a get-together just to see people smile, Andrea brought a sense of unity and belonging wherever she went.

In her hometown of Surprise, Andrea was more than just a familiar face—she was a beacon of light and love. Her community mourns the loss of someone whose presence made life brighter and better. Yet, even in this time of sorrow, there is comfort in the memories she leaves behind: the celebrations, the inside jokes, the late-night talks, and the quiet moments of shared understanding.

As we reflect on Andrea’s life, we also honor the values she embodied—compassion, resilience, and a boundless sense of care for others. Though her journey has come to a sudden and heartbreaking end, her legacy will continue through the countless lives she influenced. Her story is one of love, connection, and the kind of spirit that cannot be forgotten.

The community now gathers not only in mourning, but in celebration of all that Andrea was. Her memory will live on in every kind gesture, every moment of joy shared in her name, and in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Rest in peace, Andrea Aguina Rios. Your light will never fade.

In a significant development stemming from a fatal shooting incident in Mt. Morris Township, Michigan, 19-year-old Cordell Warwick Allen Jr. has been sentenced to three years of probation following a plea agreement. The incident, which occurred on June 25, 2024, involved a violent confrontation that led to the death of 17-year-old Khamani Lindsey and left another teenager injured.

The Incident

On the afternoon of June 25, 2024, an SUV arrived at a residence on Hilton Lane in Mt. Morris Township. Three individuals, including Allen and 18-year-old Amarion Cain, exited the vehicle and confronted a male in the front yard. This confrontation escalated into a shootout involving individuals from the SUV and someone in the driveway. As the SUV attempted to flee, another person from inside the house opened fire on the vehicle. The exchange resulted in the death of Khamani Lindsey, who was found lying in the middle of Hilton Lane with gunshot wounds, and another 17-year-old boy sustained injuries to his arm and leg .

Legal Proceedings

Following the incident, both Allen and Cain were arrested and faced multiple charges. Allen was initially charged with two counts of assault with intent to murder and two weapons offenses. However, as part of a plea agreement, the assault charges and one felony firearm charge were dismissed, resulting in a sentence of three years of probation for Allen .

Cain, on the other hand, faced more severe charges, including open murder, assault with intent to murder, and multiple weapons violations. He was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Lima, Ohio, and extradited to Flint, Michigan, where he was arraigned and held without bond pending further court proceedings .

Community Impact

The shooting and subsequent legal outcomes have had a profound impact on the Mt. Morris Township community. The incident underscores the challenges of addressing youth violence and the complexities of the legal system in handling such cases. While Allen’s probation sentence reflects a legal resolution, it also raises questions about accountability and justice for the victims and their families.

Community leaders and residents continue to grapple with the aftermath of the incident, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent similar occurrences and support affected individuals. The case serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of violence and the importance of community engagement in fostering a safer environment for all residents.